When I think of the Southwest, I think of orange sunsets, turquoise jewelry, and the neutral sandy colors of the desert. The rich colors, textures, and patterns of the American Southwest bring a feeling of warmth and comfort to any space. Here are some of my favorite accent pieces and design touches straight out of Arizona and New Mexico’s most beautiful homes.

Nature-inspired Color Palette
The Southwestern color palette combines earthy tones such as beige, terra cotta, and browns, with bold splashes of color that are evocative of stunning desert sunsets. Think earthy backdrops coupled with pops of bright red bring warmth into your living space.

Photo Credit: Best Interior Designs

Turquoise is another wildly color choice in Southwestern design, and is also highly entwined with the Native American culture of the region. This cabinet is a great accent piece to your space that also provides an attractive and practical storage solution.

Photo Credit: Great SW Furniture

Pottery and artistic designs are another great way to work subtle touches of turquoise into your living space.

Photo Credit: Etsy

Another great idea that I stumbled upon in my search for beautiful designs from the Southwest incorporates terra cotta tile into this kitchen design. The rich color of this tile contrasted with the cool green tone of the cabinets becomes the ultimate classy Southwestern kitchen.

Photo Credit: Apartment Therapy

Rustic Accents
Another unique characteristic of Southwestern style is rustic textures and accents. Distressed wood furniture pieces are often incorporated into spaces to give them a Southwestern flair, like this armoire and table.

Photo Credit: Taos Vacation Homes

If you are looking for a more drastic change for your space, the beams along the ceiling in this living area are a distinct way to get structural supports.

Photo Credit: Zunetop

Aged leather accent pieces provide a rustic feel and comfortable seating for your family and guests.

Photo Credit: Sesshu Design

Who wouldn’t want to curl up in a chair with a good book and a mug of tea, or just take a nap?

Photo Credit: Wild Wings

Bold Patterns
You can also achieve Southwestern style by adding bold patterns to your living area. I loved the subtle use of patterns on the furniture in this room. The understated design fits right in with the rustic style of the space.

Photo Credit: HGTV

Or maybe you love a bolder design. Adding a statement piece such as this patterned rug creates a unique Southwestern feel in this mountain themed living room.

Photo Credit: Mountain Living

If you really want authentic touches in your space, consider purchasing some colorful Talavera pottery to add to your living room or dining room. It will brighten up any space while adding visual interest and acting as a conversation starter.

Photo Credit: San Miguel de Allende Casa

Clay pots or adobe pots with tribal patterns can also be added for a distinct Southwest style.

Photo Credit: Darla Hallmark

A larger and more dramatic version can be achieved with a pottery mural, like this one.

Photo Credit: Etsy

Finally, if you love Native American patterns and aren’t afraid of a healthy pricetag, I recommend checking out these Navajo hanging wall blankets. These are bright, gorgeous, statement pieces.

Photo Credit: Etsy

You don’t have to live in Arizona or New Mexico to bring a bit of region’s flair into your living space. Distressed wooden accent pieces, nature-inspired color choices, and distinct tribal patterns can be incorporated into your home to add a Southwestern feel. The best way to get a Southwestern influence is to think color, natural influences, and don’t be afraid of anything that helps your home look a little lived in!

Jim Klossner is a home repair professional. Many of his designs are inspired by his travels in the American Southwest and beyond. Click here to learn more about his recent accommodation at the Thunderbird Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona.